iQ Offices space at 302 Bay Street transforms a historic 14-storey landmark in Toronto’s Financial District into an elite co-working space that harmoniously fuses heritage charm with modern innovation. Arcadis’ design takes inspiration from a luxury hotel rather than a traditional office. Our aim was to reshape the workplace into something more experiential, where the way it feels matters as much as the way it functions. At its core is the restoration of the iconic Banking Hall into a sophisticated social club, where original Art Deco features are carefully preserved and elevated through refined modern integrations.
The design carefully honours the building’s historic character through the preservation of key architectural elements, including decorative plaster ceilings, grand proportions, and richly detailed finishes that reflect the building’s legacy as a prominent financial institution. Heritage materials such as stone, marble, and metal detailing are celebrated rather than concealed, allowing the space to retain its authenticity while being reimagined for contemporary use.
The experience begins on the ground floor with a grand lobby atmosphere, complete with a barista bar and curated vintage-inspired moments. A dramatic spiral staircase acts as both a heritage feature and a spatial anchor, connecting members to the mezzanine level where semi-private lounges, breakout areas, and meeting rooms create a layered, club-like experience. The third floor is dedicated to a conference suite tailored for board meetings and high-impact presentations. From the fourth floor onward, the building opens into flexible private offices and shared workspaces, supported by dedicated kitchens and amenities on every level.
Members also have access to a fitness zone, a games room with a billiard table, and a rooftop patio with panoramic city views. With a hospitality-driven approach, the project balances performance with well-being and turns work into an experience rather than a routine. iQ Offices at 302 Bay Street redefines the workplace as a destination shaped by heritage, design, and experience, offering more than a workspace by interweaving history, luxury, and cutting-edge innovation into the everyday.
Design:
Photography: Indigo Visual
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